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Flight Review: Nuisance Or Opportunity?

Most pilots who fly single-engine piston airplanes in non-commercial operations do not undertake formal training at annual or other intervals. Instead, they are only required to complete a flight review from a certified flight instructor (CFI) every other year to fly as pilot-in-command. For most pilots, this is an exercise to be completed with as little effort as possible. Some pilots resent the requirement while a few even dread it. This doesnt have to be the case, however.

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Key Takeaways:

  • Many general aviation flight reviews are treated as minimal compliance, often failing to leverage their potential as a tailored, educational experience focused on individual pilot needs and safety.
  • The regulatory framework (FAR 61.56) allows for a flexible flight review focused on personalized safety and risk management, rather than a rote practical test.
  • An effective "risk-based" flight review is crucial for improving general aviation safety, but finding Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) adequately trained to conduct such reviews is a significant challenge.
  • Pilots should actively seek instructors capable of providing a valuable, personalized review or consider a "do-it-yourself" self-assessment in off-years to enhance skills and combat complacency.
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Most pilots who fly single-engine piston airplanes in non-commercial operations do not undertake formal training at annual or other intervals. Instead, they are only required to complete a flight review from a certified flight instructor (CFI) every other year to fly as pilot-in-command. For most pilots, this is an exercise to be completed with as little effort as possible. Some pilots resent the requirement while a few even dread it. This doesn’t have to be the case, however.

While it might take a little effort to find a CFI who has the flick regarding what comprises a good flight review, the end result and the value you receive might be worth it. If you want to go further and try something different in the off year, a do-it-yourself event might be an equally good approach.

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